1MORE ComfoBuds Mini
An ANC-equipped wireless earphone focused on an ultra-compact design. While its 3.7g lightweight build is commendable, it lacks fundamental acoustic performance and technical advantages, resulting in low competitiveness for its price.
Overview
The 1MORE ComfoBuds Mini is an ultra-compact ANC-equipped wireless earphone developed by Chinese audio equipment manufacturer 1MORE. Released in 2022, it features a lightweight design of 3.7g per unit and compact size as its primary characteristics, marketed as the “world’s smallest active noise-canceling earphones.” It employs a 7mm dynamic driver with graphene diaphragm and dual magnetic circuit design, offering up to 40dB noise canceling performance and IPX5 water resistance. It also includes SoundID support for personalized sound experiences and sleep sound functionality with 30 types of natural sounds.
Scientific Validity
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]The official specifications claim ANC performance of up to 40dB, and third-party measurements have confirmed good noise canceling performance. While achieving the excellent level (30dB or higher) according to transparency standards, it falls short of industry-leading standards, placing it in the mid-to-upper performance range. Regarding acoustic performance from the 7mm driver, specific numerical data for THD, SNR, and frequency characteristics are not disclosed, making objective evaluation difficult. Physical constraints from miniaturization inevitably affect acoustic performance, and scientifically verifiable sound quality improvement effects are considered limited.
Technology Level
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]The graphene diaphragm and dual magnetic circuit design represent modern approaches but are not particularly innovative technologies within the industry. While the 3.7g weight reduction is engineering-wise commendable, its contribution to acoustic performance is limited. Bluetooth 5.2, AAC support, and Qi-compatible wireless charging are standard features with no observed technical advantages. The SoundID function for sound quality customization can be evaluated as added value but does not contribute to fundamental acoustic performance improvement. Overall, it is evaluated as industry-average technology level.
Cost-Performance
\[\Large \text{0.8}\]With a Japanese market price of 87 USD, a competitor, the EarFun Air Pro 4 (67 USD), offers equivalent or superior ANC performance (50dB) and features. The calculation is: 67 USD ÷ 87 USD = 0.769, which rounds to 0.8. The EarFun Air Pro 4 provides superior specifications, including better ANC performance, longer battery life (52 hours), the latest Bluetooth 5.4, and aptX Lossless support, for about 20 USD less than the ComfoBuds Mini. The biggest differentiating factor for the ComfoBuds Mini is its unique 3.7g lightweight design, but in terms of pure performance-to-price ratio, it faces competitive challenges.
Reliability & Support
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]While 1MORE has established a certain market position as a Chinese manufacturer, support structure within Japan is limited. Product warranty periods and specific failure rate data are not disclosed, making objective evaluation of long-term reliability difficult. IPX5 water resistance is adequate for daily use but cannot be considered industry-leading. Information regarding firmware update support is also insufficient, presenting concerns about long-term support structure.
Rationality of Design Philosophy
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]The ultra-miniaturization approach represents a rational direction addressing certain user needs, but compromises are evident in balancing with acoustic performance. Physical constraints make adoption of larger drivers difficult, creating limitations in sound quality aspects. While ANC functionality incorporation addresses modern requirements, optimal performance delivery is challenging due to miniaturization constraints. Though the significance as dedicated audio equipment is recognized, with higher-performance options existing in the same price range, design philosophy rationality remains at moderate evaluation levels.
Advice
The 1MORE ComfoBuds Mini is suitable for users who prioritize a lightweight and discreet design above all else. Its 3.7g weight is a clear advantage, promising minimal fatigue even during long hours of use. Features like sleep-friendly design and sound customization via SoundID also add value. However, for those who prioritize sound quality and features, we strongly recommend considering the EarFun Air Pro 4 (67 USD). This product offers significantly superior specifications—including 50dB high-performance ANC, 52-hour battery life, and aptX Lossless support—for about 20 USD less. Before purchasing, it is crucial to clarify your priorities between lightweight design and acoustic performance/price efficiency and to conduct a thorough comparison with other options.
(2025.7.15)